Accounting is one of those rare fields where stability, growth, and specialization all come into play. If you’re thinking of stepping into the accounting profession or circling back after time away, it helps to know where you stand. According to the Government of Canada’s official job bank, accounting professionals are in demand across most provinces, with solid job prospects expected over the next few years.
Whether you’re exploring your first role or angling for something more advanced in your accounting career, the path to finding the right fit isn’t a one-size-fits-all affair. Let’s talk about what works and what you should keep in mind.
Laying the Groundwork
If you’re just starting out, the baseline for entry-level jobs usually includes a college or bachelor’s degree either directly in accounting, or a closely related financial field.
For more support-based roles like accounting clerk or assistant, you might get in with a high school diploma and relevant skills, especially if you’re good with numbers and detail-oriented by nature.
From there, employers expect a handle on basic accounting tasks and working knowledge of accounting software. You don’t need to master tax laws on day one, but understanding accounting principles and financial reporting are kept and interpreted is a necessity. If you’re aiming for long-term growth, a certified public accountant (CPA) designation isn’t a must at the outset, but it’s something to keep in the picture.
Finding the Right Accounting Job
Let’s get practical. Most job seekers start with job boards, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But that alone won’t get you very far. Good roles, especially entry-level accounting jobs, tend to go fast or stay internal unless you know where to look. That’s where networking and targeted outreach come in.
Your professional network can open doors you didn’t even know were there.
Reach out to hiring managers. A tailored resume and a focused cover letter will get more traction than a generic application sent to dozens of listings.
If you’re not sure how to position yourself or if you’re just not getting traction, consider partnering with a recruitment agency that specializes in accounting jobs.
How to Start Your Career in Accounting
Starting a career in accounting means learning the profession from the ground up. It begins with entry-level exposure, often in roles like accounting assistant, junior bookkeeper or staff accountant, where the work is hands-on and the learning is constant.
These positions are where you get your bearings. You start seeing how accounting systems function in a live business setting. It’s less about mastering everything right away and more about building a sense of how accounting fits into the broader operations of a company.
Formal education gives you theory. Your first job shows you how that theory holds up under deadlines, unexpected changes or incomplete data. That’s where you gain practical insight, not just technical understanding.
Some candidates enter the field while pursuing certification, which can help open more doors over time. But even without a CPA or similar credential, a strong foundation in basic accounting tasks, software proficiency and attention to detail can carry you a long way early on.
What matters most is consistency. Show that you can be relied on. Stay sharp. Keep asking questions. The longer you stay engaged, the more options begin to appear. You might move into reporting, work with clients directly or take on audit responsibilities. But none of that comes without proving you’re ready to take ownership of the work in front of you now.
Is 30 Too Late to Get Into Accounting? A Word to Late Starters
People often wonder if 30 is too late to start a career in accounting. The answer is no. Not even close. If you’ve got the discipline and you’re willing to learn, there’s space for you. The industry needs more people who bring perspective and experience. Employers notice that.
Where to Go from Here
If you’re looking for real guidance, or if you’re tired of spinning your wheels,. At OpTalent, we know the accounting field. We work directly with employers and we understand what they’re looking for not just on paper, but in practice. Whether you’re at the beginning or the midpoint of your career, we can help you take the next step that actually fits. Contact us today to start the conversation.
